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Paroxetine capsules

What is this medicine?

PAROXETINE (pa ROX e teen) is used to treat hot flashes due to menopause.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth once daily at bedtime. Follow the directions on the prescription label. This medicine can be taken with or without food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

Where should I keep my medicine?

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

bipolar disorder or a family history of bipolar disorder

bleeding disorders

glaucoma

heart disease

kidney disease

liver disease

low levels of sodium in the blood

seizures

suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member

take MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

take medicines that treat or prevent blood clots

thyroid disease

an unusual or allergic reaction to paroxetine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress.

Patients and their families should watch out for new or worsening thoughts of suicide or depression. Also watch out for sudden changes in feelings such as feeling anxious, agitated, panicky, irritable, hostile, aggressive, impulsive, severely restless, overly excited and hyperactive, or not being able to sleep. If this happens, especially at the beginning of treatment or after a change in dose, call your health care professional.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum, sucking hard candy and drinking plenty of water will help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.

Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information. Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine.

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organization serving northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. Driven by
our Mission to improve your health and well-being, we offer a full range
of diagnostic, medical and surgical specialties in areas such as
emergency medicine and trauma, heart and vascular, oncology,
orthopaedics, neurology, and women's and children's services.